What is an Ankle Sprain?
An ankle sprain occurs when the ligaments that support the ankle stretch or tear due to the ankle rolling, twisting, or turning awkwardly. It is one of the most common musculoskeletal injuries. At Dashvanth Healthcare Delhi, we provide graded treatment for ankle sprains from first aid to surgical repair.
Grades of Ankle Sprain
Grade 1 (Mild)
Slight stretching of the ligament with microscopic tears. Mild swelling and tenderness. No instability. Full recovery in 1–2 weeks.
Grade 2 (Moderate)
Partial tear of the ligament. Moderate swelling, bruising, and difficulty weight-bearing. Some instability. Recovery in 3–6 weeks.
Grade 3 (Severe)
Complete ligament tear. Significant swelling and bruising, unable to bear weight. Marked instability. Recovery in 3–6 months, may require surgery.
Immediate Treatment: RICE Protocol
- Rest: Stop activity, avoid putting weight on injured ankle
- Ice: Apply ice for 20 minutes every 2–3 hours for first 48 hours
- Compression: Elastic bandage to control swelling
- Elevation: Keep ankle above heart level
Medical Treatment
- NSAIDs for pain and swelling
- Physiotherapy for strength and balance (proprioception training)
- Bracing or strapping for support during return to activity
- Surgical reconstruction for Grade 3 sprains with chronic instability (Brostrom procedure)
Prevention of Ankle Sprains
- Balance and proprioception exercises
- Peroneal muscle strengthening
- Appropriate footwear and ankle bracing for high-risk sports
- Avoiding uneven surfaces
Expert ankle sprain treatment at Dashvanth Healthcare Delhi: 011-41670042
